BASF to cut 250 jobs

MOBILE, Ala. - BASF SE will cut 250 of the 700 employees and contractors at its McIntosh chemical plant over the next two years as the German firm tries to lower costs to compete with new plants in Asia. The employee reductions at the Washington County plant could happen through layoffs, retirements, buyouts or attrition. The plant makes a variety of chemicals used to enhance plastics, lubricants, coatings, paper and laundry detergent. (Source: Mobile Press-Register, 02/16/11)